The Detroit Lions approach the NFL draft with a well-constructed roster, thanks to years of strategic planning by general manager Brad Holmes. This gives the Lions the flexibility to select the best available player in the draft, and many analysts suggest that player might be a complement to edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. While the Lions struggled to maintain a consistent pass rush after Hutchinson’s season-ending leg injury last year, they could find a “rare” talent in the upcoming draft.
Lions Target Another Michigan Star
After the success of drafting Michigan standout Hutchinson, taken second overall in the 2022 NFL draft, the Lions may stick to a similar strategy this year by selecting another Wolverines player—defensive tackle Kenneth Grant. USA Today’s Michael Middlehurt-Schwartz believes Grant could help put pressure on opposing offenses and free up passing lanes for Hutchinson.
He also noted that Hutchinson’s return could revitalize a defensive line affected by injuries last season. However, concerns persist, especially after defensive tackle Alim McNeill tore his ACL in December. Despite Grant still refining his pass-rush skills, the 6-foot-4, 331-pound player can be a threat to offenses that don’t double-team him.
CBS Sports’ Kyle Stackpole also predicted the Lions would select Grant but mentioned some uncertainty about the defensive lineman, as an injury prevented him from participating in NFL workouts this winter. Stackpole acknowledged that while a hamstring injury kept Grant from working out at the combine, the defensive tackle remains an extremely athletic and large prospect with significant potential for growth.
Other Options for Detroit
The Lions claimed their second consecutive NFC North title in 2024 with a 15-2 record before a disappointing playoff exit in the divisional round. This success was due in large part to Holmes’ excellent drafting and smart free-agent acquisitions. As a result, the Lions have the opportunity to explore other areas in the draft, including the offensive line. The 33rd Team’s Kyle Crabbs suggested that Detroit could target Alabama guard Tyler Booker, known for his tough, physical style of play that aligns with the Lions’ identity on the offensive line.
Crabbs noted that Detroit’s “bully mentality” weakened as injuries mounted, and with a revamped coaching staff, adding a culture fit like Booker could help the team maintain its aggressive attitude.
The Lions also need to address the loss of guard Kevin Zeitler, who started 16 games last season and signed a one-year, $9 million contract with the Tennessee Titans in free agency. Detroit could look to second-year guard Christian Mahogany, a 2024 sixth-round pick who showed promise after recovering from an early-season illness.
